Search

Pollen morphology of Beta trigyna, B. vulgaris and B. vulgaris subsp. maritima, last of those studied for the first time, was investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy, based on 10 herbarium specimens. The aim of the study was to provide detailed data on the pollen characteristics of these taxa to identify similarities and differences between them. Pollen grains are pantoporate, spheroidal, circular in outline; small- and medium-sized. Exine sculpture is nanoechinate, tectum is psilate or psilate-perforate. Pore membranes are nanoechinate. Diagnostic relevance of the characters of pollen grains is discussed (pollen and pore diameters, distance between pores and between pore centres, nanoechini size and density, number of nanoechini on pore membranes, structure of columellae). UPGMA dendrograms based on palynological data support the differentiation of B. trigyna (section Corollinae), B. vulgaris and B. vulgaris subsp. maritima (section Beta). The obtained characteristics of pollen grains of Beta species can be used in spore-pollen analysis, especially in identifying the impact of human economic activity in the past. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a versatile tropical fruit crop with economic and nutritional benefits. Assessing genetic diversity of the germplasm is essential for effective collection, conservation management and utilization of resources for breeding purposes. Genetic variability and population structure were studied for 55 papaya accessions including landraces, cultivars, and exotic collections, using 15 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. SSR analysis data revealed a total of 95 alleles with an average of 6.3 alleles per marker and an average heterozygosity of 0.75. All the markers were polymorphic, with an average PIC value of 0.72. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram based on shared allele distance grouped the accessions into four main clusters. Genetic structure based on the structure algorithm identified two populations, whereas discriminant analysis of principal components revealed four distinct genetic clusters. Remarkably, these clusters were not linked to the geographic regions. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated a variation of 75% within individuals and 22% between populations. Fst = 0.216 and Nm = 0.205 showed moderate genetic relationship within populations. These findings have implications for marker-assisted breeding, improvement of conservation strategies, detection of duplicates, and framing policies for sustainable crop utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper includes a comprehensive taxonomical study based on seed morphology of 31 Euphorbia L species from Türkiye. The studied Euphorbia taxa have been examined for morphological traits such as seed color, dimensions, surface ornamentation, cell wall structures, lipid granule presence, and caruncle shape and dimensions with Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and stereo microscopy to develop a better understanding of the basis of its species. The outcomes show that the species differ based on seed shape and color. The seed width dimensions are between 0.55 and 3.83 mm and the length dimensions are between 1.03 and 5.87 mm. Euphorbia lathyris, E. prostrata, and E. nutans are marked differently from the rest of the studied species based on their seed dimension. The seed surface ornamentation is classified into 12 different types: tuberculate, reticulate, areolate, colliculate, verrucate, alveolate, rugose, alveolate‐reticulate, slightly reticulate, reticulate‐areolate, pusticulate, and ruminate. The most common form is reticulate, found in eight species. The tuberculate (in E. helioscopia), areolate (in E. oblongata), slightly reticulate (in E. amygdaloides), and ruminate (in E. herniariifolia) ornamentation types are each characterized by only one species. The presence of lipid granules and anticlinal and periclinal cell walls disclose interspecific relationships within the examined taxa. Also, an identification key is offered for the studied species based on seed characters. Research Highlights: The seeds of Turkish Euphorbia species have been studied in depth.The morphological characters of seeds of Turkish Euphorbia species have been examined utilizing SEM and light microscopy for the first time and discussed the taxonomic practice of these characteristics.A dichotomous key containing seed morphological data has presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crocus belongs to the Iridaceae family which comprises 88-100 species. This genus is represented in Iran by 24 species. This study analyzed relationships among the eight taxa distributed in Iran using 11 leaf anatomical characters. UPGMA (Unweighted Paired Group using average) and WARD clustering were performed using the Euclidean distance after 1000 times bootstrapping. The principal component analysis (PCA) shows that the three main components represent 85% of the variation. The PCA of anatomical traits effectively delineated the species under investigation. Furthermore, the PCA Biplot demonstrated that anatomical features can successfully differentiate between species. Notably, the condition of C. haussknechtii was found to be closely related to the two species, C. biflorus and C. michelsonii, despite C. haussknechtii being classified within the Crocus section, while the other two species belong to the Nudicapus section. Our findings indicate that additional anatomical data and molecular data are necessary for reliable conclusions regarding the studied species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to enrich the Pelargonium gene pool through crosses and assess genetic variation among 56 genotypes from five Pelargonium species. Seventeen morphological descriptors were used, and NTSYS-pc software was employed to define genetic relationships, and a UPGMA-generated dendrogram reflected these relationships. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to determine which parameter was more effective in explaining variation. Results showed wide variation in genetic similarity rates, with the most similar genotypes being P. zonale 'c1' and a hybrid of P. zonale 'c1' x P. zonale 'c2' (90% similarity). According to the dendrogram results, it was observed that the genotypes were distributed in six clusters. In contrast, the most distant genotypes were P. zonale 'c11' and a hybrid of P. zonale 'c10' x P. zonale 'c11' (0.04% similarity). Hybrids from the female parent P. x hortorum 'c1' exhibited unique placement in the dendrogram. In the crossing combinations with this genotype, the individuals obtained in terms of flower type, flower color, flower size, bud size, early flowering, and leaf size characters showed different characteristics from the parents. Surprising outcomes in flower types, colors, and shapes contributed to gene pool enrichment, promising increased breeding variation success. The study holds practical implications for commercial breeding and serves as a valuable guide for future research endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of hot pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) hybrid varieties is limited compared to those in chili, bell or sweet pepper hybrid. Heterosis, heterobeltiosis, and reciprocal are critical indicators in F1 hybrids, valuable for developing hybrid varieties. This research aimed to evaluate both phenotypic and genotypic changes in F1 hybrids from single cross-hybridization. The study observed 53 phenotypic characteristics encompassing morphological (plant, leaves, flowers, and fruits), four production-related (fruit weight, fruit number per plant, fruit weight per plant, and yield per hectare), and 10 chemical characteristics (proximate, simple sugar, and secondary metabolite). Genotypic changes were analyzed using ten SSR markers. Employing a randomized complete block design, the study included two parents, F1, and reciprocal F1 hybrids, across four treatments with two replicates each. Phenotypic changes were analyzed using ANOVA and comparison test, while genotypic changes were analyzed through cluster analysis. Result indicated heterosis in 12 characters, heterobeltiosis in eight characters, and reciprocal effects in eight characters. Significant improvements were noted in key characteristics such as plant height, fruit maturity, fruit weight per plant, yield per hectare and vitamin C. Genotypic evaluation revealed distinct genetic differences between F1 and its parents, including the reciprocal F1. These phenotypic and genotypic changes suggest that hot pepper could be more productive and of higher quality when developed as a hybrid variety, indicating promising avenue for future breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buckwheat is a highly nutritional pseudocereal with antioxidant potential. The aim of this study was to analyze the genetic variability of 21 varieties of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) and 14 varieties of Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) using microsatellite markers. By analyzing 21 SSR markers, an average of 11.6 alleles per locus were amplified and an average PIC value of 0.711 was determined. We determined the heterozygous status of the individuals and variability in the set using the SSR analysis on the basis of expected heterozygosity (He, 0.477), observed heterozygosity (Ho, 0.675), Shannon's index (I, 0.820), and fixation indices (FST, FIS, FIT). Based on the SSR analyses, the lower level of expected heterozygosity in the analyzed set of Tartary buckwheat genotypes was observed compared to common buckwheat. With the help of a hierarchical cluster analysis using the UPGMA algorithm, Structure analysis, and PCoA analysis for the SSR markers, we divided the buckwheat varieties in the dendrogram into two main clusters according to the species. The AMOVA analysis showed that genetic variability between the individuals prevails in the analyzed set. The SSR technique proved to be a suitable tool for the determination of intra- and inter-varietal genetic variability and for analysis of diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using 16 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, the genetic relatedness of 21 exceptional walnut genotypes was assessed. A significant degree of genetic diversity was observed within a given population, as indicated by the number of alleles per locus ranging from 2 to 4. WGA-1, WGA-4, and WGA-79 contained the greatest number of alleles (4), followed by WGA-118, WGA-202, and WGA-42. Conversely, WGA-27, WGA-69, and WGA-32 contained the fewest alleles. The range of the PIC value was 0.11 to 0.38. Using model-based cluster analysis, all genotypes were categorized into two primary clusters according to the UPGMA dendrogram, with varying degrees of sub-clustering. All the genotypes were categorized into six genetically distant subpopulations. The genotypes were genetically distinct but had variable degrees of admixture. The anticipated heterozygosity at a specific locus ranged from 0.563 to 0.741. Additionally, population differentiation (Fst) ranged between 0.176 and 0.261. These findings highlight the importance of considering germplasm diversity in walnut breeding programs and conservation efforts aimed at enhancing walnut cultivation in the region. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of walnut genetic diversity in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir and informs future breeding and conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using 16 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, the genetic relatedness of 21 exceptional walnut genotypes was assessed. A significant degree of genetic diversity was observed within a given population, as indicated by the number of alleles per locus ranging from 2 to 4. WGA-1, WGA-4, and WGA-79 contained the greatest number of alleles (4), followed by WGA-118, WGA-202, and WGA-42. Conversely, WGA-27, WGA-69, and WGA-32 contained the fewest alleles. The range of the PIC value was 0.11 to 0.38. Using model-based cluster analysis, all genotypes were categorized into two primary clusters according to the UPGMA dendrogram, with varying degrees of sub-clustering. All the genotypes were categorized into six genetically distant subpopulations. The genotypes were genetically distinct but had variable degrees of admixture. The anticipated heterozygosity at a specific locus ranged from 0.563 to 0.741. Additionally, population differentiation (Fst) ranged between 0.176 and 0.261. These findings highlight the importance of considering germplasm diversity in walnut breeding programs and conservation efforts aimed at enhancing walnut cultivation in the region. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of walnut genetic diversity in the Northwestern Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir and informs future breeding and conservation strategies.

• Pollen morphology of genera Oreobliton, Aphanisma, Beta, Hablitzia, and Patellifolia (Betoideae, Amaranthaceae) was studied using LM and SEM. • Two types of exine sculpture were observed: nanoechinate and psilate. • Three pollen types (Hablitzieae, Corollinae, Beta/Macrocarpae) were revealed. • Diagnostic pollen characters separating the tribes Hablitzieae and Beteae were exine thickness and structure of columellae. • Cluster analysis supports the differentiation of sections Corollinae, Beta, and Macrocarpae. Pollen morphology of 10 taxa belonging to the genera Oreobliton, Aphanisma, Beta, Hablitzia , and Patellifolia (subfamily Betoideae, Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae sensu APG IV) was investigated using both light and scanning electron microscopy. The research aimed to provide data on their pollen characteristics and to evaluate their significance for taxonomy and phylogeny. All pollen grains are pantoporate, spheroidal in shape, usually circular in outline (rarely polygonal), small and medium-sized. Two types of exine sculpture were recognised: type I – nanoechinate, and type II – psilate. For the first time, a psilate type of exine sculpture was revealed in the pollen grains of a member of subfam. Betoideae (Beta macrocarpa). Three pollen types (I – Hablitzieae, II – Corollinae, and III – Beta/Macrocarpae) were found and described based on the pollen diameter, pore diameter, distance between pores and between pore centres, pore number, C/D value, exine thickness, nanoechini: height, width at the base, number/4 µm², and number on pore membranes. The diagnostic pollen characters that separate the tribes Hablitzieae and Beteae are: exine thickness and structure of columellae. UPGMA dendrogram, based on quantitative pollen traits, supports the differentiation of most taxa at genera and species level. UPGMA dendrogram, based on qualitative palynological data, supports the differentiation of sections Corollinae, Beta, and Macrocarpae. The pollen morphology of Aphanisma blitoides, Beta lomatogona, B. macrocarpa, B. macrorhiza, Oreobliton thesioides , and Patellifolia patellaris , was studied for the first time in the present investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxonomic revision and morphometrics are two crucial facets for the proper identification, updating of taxa, and strengthening phenetic relationships of angiosperms. This study focused on the systematics and morphometrics of the subfamily Byttnerioideae Burnett (Family Malvaceae) for the first time in Bangladesh, revealing eight taxa under seven genera, namely Abroma Jacq., Ayenia L., Guazuma Mill., Kleinhovia L., Melochia L., Theobroma L. and Waltheria L. These seven genera fall into three tribes: Byttnerieae, Theobromateae, and Hermannieae. Dichotomous bracketed keys to genera and species were generated. Detailed nomenclature, diagnostic characteristics, illustrations, representative specimens, notes on distribution and uses for each species were provided. Morphometrics study was conducted employing cluster and principal components analysis (PCA). Cluster analysis revealed close relationships between Theobromateae and Hermannieae tribes compared to Byttnerieae tribe in the form of UPGMA dendrogram. Similarity matrix revealed the highest affinity between Ayenia elegans Ridl. and Ayenia grandifolia (DC.) Christenh. & Byng. In the PCA analysis, the first two principal components explained approximately 82.26% cumulative variance. PCA-derived scatter and projection plots supported the topology and inter-relationships in the cluster analysis. These findings will enhance future conservation strategies, especially for the threatened and medicinally important taxa of Byttnerioideae in Bangladesh, and support molecular phylogenetic studies of the subfamily Byttnerioideae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to enrich the Pelargonium gene pool through crosses and assess genetic variation among 56 genotypes from five Pelargonium species. Seventeen morphological descriptors were used, and NTSYS-pc software was employed to define genetic relationships, and a UPGMA-generated dendrogram reflected these relationships. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to determine which parameter was more effective in explaining variation. Results showed wide variation in genetic similarity rates, with the most similar genotypes being P. zonale ‘c1’ and a hybrid of P. zonale ‘c1’ x P. zonale ‘c2’ (90% similarity). According to the dendrogram results, it was observed that the genotypes were distributed in six clusters. In contrast, the most distant genotypes were P. zonale ‘c11’ and a hybrid of P. zonale ‘c10’ x P. zonale ‘c11’ (0.04% similarity). Hybrids from the female parent P. x hortorum ‘c1’ exhibited unique placement in the dendrogram. In the crossing combinations with this genotype, the individuals obtained in terms of flower type, flower color, flower size, bud size, early flowering, and leaf size characters showed different characteristics from the parents. Surprising outcomes in flower types, colors, and shapes contributed to gene pool enrichment, promising increased breeding variation success. The study holds practical implications for commercial breeding and serves as a valuable guide for future research endeavors.

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Astragalus L. sect. Aegacantha Bunge includes 57 described species, mostly confined to Southwest Asia and Central Asia. We studied the pollen morphology of 17 species of this section present in Pakistan. Pollen morphology of sect. Aegacantha species is poorly investigated despite its systematic importance. The main aim of this study is to determine and document the pollen characters that can assist in the taxonomic identification of species in this difficult section. Pollen slides were prepared following acetolysis and examined by both light and scanning electron microscopy. Pollen size varies, with the polar axis ranging from 32.91 to 43.10 μm and the equatorial axis from 22.91 to 28.47 μm. Pollen is sub-prolate (1.15–1.33) to prolate (1.34–2.00) in shape, small to medium in size, radially symmetrical, isopolar, trizonocolporate to tricolporate, and monad. Sculpture variations (i.e. reticulate, microreticulate, perforate, microperforate, regulate, microregulate and granulate) were observed around the apertural, meridional and polar regions. Ordination analysis (principal component analysis (PCA)) revealed that the quantitative characters of pollen morphology are the most reliable characters for delimitation of species within section Aegacantha. Cluster analysis (unweighted pair group method using arithmetic average (UPGMA)) shows a partial relationship between the Aegacantha taxa clustered based on pollen characters and supports the general morphology. Further, this study shows that the pollen traits provide a baseline for phylogenetic optimisation in the investigated Aegacantha section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic diversity is referred to as any variation at the phenotypic, DNA or genomic level of an individual, population or species. The appraisal of diversity is important to understand its pattern and evolutionary relationships between germplasms or genotypes, which will aid in sampling the genetic resources in a more systematic manner for conservation and crop improvement. The present study employed 50 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to the yield and fibre quality/colour traits for estimating the genetic diversity in 33 cotton genotypes of diploid and tetraploid species differing in fibre colour. The diversity analysis was performed in GenAlEx (Ver. 6.41) and Powermarker (Ver. 3.25) while DARwin (Ver. 6.0.21) software was used to establish the phylogenetic relationships following neighbour- -joining (NJ) and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic (UPGMA) mean method. Markers generated 186 polymorphic loci as genotypic data with an average of 3.72 alleles and an average polymorphic information content (PIC) value of 0.59 per SSR locus. The NJ and UPGMA grouped 33 genotypes into three major clusters I, II and III consisting of 21 tetraploid Gossypium hirsutum, 10 G. arboreum coloured and 2 white cotton genotypes, respectively. In the PCA, the first two components (PC1 and PC2) explained 74.69% of the variation and the biplot plotted the 33 genotypes in three groups. The study established the diverse nature of 33 cotton genotypes based on their fibre colour and ploidy level. With confirmation of the prevalent genetic diversity, we suggest that hybridisation can be planned among diverse genotypes to unleash greater variation in the fibre colour or to derive superior cross combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative study on the basis of detailed morphological characters of four species of Piper L., viz. - Piper betle L., Piper nigrum L., Piper longum L. and Piper retrofractum Vahl., from southern districts of West Bengal, India was performed to draw a systematic conclusion. Both qualitative and quantitative morphological traits were considered. The usefulness of potential morphometric features was identified. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) and Multivariate Cluster Analysis (UPGMA) were used in establishing a systematic interrelationship among the taxa under study. In this study, potential morphometric traits were identified which were valuable in classifying these taxa. This study found highest level of similarity between P. longum L. and P. retrofractum Vahl., whereas, Pnigrum L. has least affinity with other three taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centella asiatica L. is an important herbaceous perennial medicinal plant commonly known as Mandukparni or Indian pennywort or Jalbrahmi or Gotu kola. It has been widely used in various traditional and modern medicine for its medicinal and nutritional properties. Although C. asiatica L. is widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions of India, only limited attempts have been made in exploiting diversity in conservation and crop improvement. Thus, the present study was aimed to assess the molecular diversity of its 17 accessions by employing simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Among the 20 primers, 18 of them showed 75 polymorphic bands, which generated 97.4% polymorphism and two primers gave monomorphic bands across the accessions. The polymorphism information content values ranged from 0.20 to 0.34 with an average of 0.26. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean dendrogram grouped the accessions into two major clusters. The highest molecular distance shown at 56% in between the accessions (IIHR CA-5 and IIHR CA-16, IIHR CA-17) and (IIHR CA-8 and IIHR CA-17) revealed the most diverse pairs of accessions in comparison with other accessions. The results showed that SSR markers are suitable for assessing the genetic diversity of C. asiatica accessions, and the most diverse pairs of germplasms are (IIHR CA-5 and IIHR CA 16, IIHR CA 17) and (IIHR CA-8 and IIHR CA 17), which can be utilized in breeding programs to widen the genetic base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowing the distribution and eco-geography of native Onobrychis altissima and O. cyri in Azerbaijan is critical for the implementation of strategies for their conservation and sustainable use. This study includes 27 specimens from nine wild populations of O. altissima and O. cyri collected from their natural habitats in Azerbaijan. The aims of this study are to provide a detailed morphological and eco-geographic characterization of O. altissima and O. cyri, to determine the distribution and environmental variables that define the eco-geographic zones native to Azerbaijan, and also to determine the priority areas for in situ conservation of native Onobrychis germplasm in Azerbaijan. Besides, research work was carried out for the purpose of clarifying the distribution areas, discovering more resistant species for selection, as well as enriching the genetic resources and Her-barium Fund. The specimens were biometrically assessed using 34 quantitative and 10 qualitative morphological characters. At each site, we recorded eco-geographic data regarding longitude, latitude, altitude, slope inclination, slope orientation, maximum and minimum temperatures, annual precipitation, relief, as well as soil traits including texture, humus, organic carbon, total nitrogen, pH, phosphorus pentoxide, potassium oxide, and magnesium. Cluster analysis of morphological characters showed that the nine populations could be divided into three main groups. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) of eco-geographic data is discussed. The article presents tables and phenograms reflecting some eco-geographic information and a distribution map of the species.

Genetic diversity is referred to as any variation at the phenotypic, DNA or genomic level of an individual, population or species. The appraisal of diversity is important to understand its pattern and evolutionary relationships between germplasms or genotypes, which will aid in sampling the genetic resources in a more systematic manner for conservation and crop improvement. The present study employed 50 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to the yield and fibre quality/colour traits for estimating the genetic diversity in 33 cotton genotypes of diploid and tetraploid species differing in fibre colour. The diversity analysis was performed in GenAlEx (Ver. 6.41) and Powermarker (Ver. 3.25) while DARwin (Ver. 6.0.21) software was used to establish the phylogenetic relationships following neighbour-joining (NJ) and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic (UPGMA) mean method. Markers generated 186 polymorphic loci as genotypic data with an average of 3.72 alleles and an average polymorphic information content (PIC) value of 0.59 per SSR locus. The NJ and UPGMA grouped 33 genotypes into three major clusters I, II and III consisting of 21 tetraploid Gossypium hirsutum, 10 G. arboreum coloured and 2 white cotton genotypes, respectively. In the PCA, the first two components (PC1 and PC2) explained 74.69% of the variation and the biplot plotted the 33 genotypes in three groups. The study established the diverse nature of 33 cotton genotypes based on their fibre colour and ploidy level. With confirmation of the prevalent genetic diversity, we suggest that hybridisation can be planned among diverse genotypes to unleash greater variation in the fibre colour or to derive superior cross combinations.

Buckwheat is a highly nutritional pseudocereal with antioxidant potential. The aim of this study was to analyze the genetic variability of 21 varieties of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) and 14 varieties of Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) using microsatellite markers. By analyzing 21 SSR markers, an average of 11.6 alleles per locus were amplified and an average PIC value of 0.711 was determined. We determined the heterozygous status of the individuals and variability in the set using the SSR analysis on the basis of expected heterozygosity (He, 0.477), observed heterozygosity (Ho, 0.675), Shannon’s index (I, 0.820), and fixation indices (FST, FIS, FIT). Based on the SSR analyses, the lower level of expected heterozygosity in the analyzed set of Tartary buckwheat genotypes was observed compared to common buckwheat. With the help of a hierarchical cluster analysis using the UPGMA algorithm, Structure analysis, and PCoA analysis for the SSR markers, we divided the buckwheat varieties in the dendrogram into two main clusters according to the species. The AMOVA analysis showed that genetic variability between the individuals prevails in the analyzed set. The SSR technique proved to be a suitable tool for the determination of intra- and inter-varietal genetic variability and for analysis of diversity.

The genus Glochidion, a member of the family Phyllanthaceae, primarily comprises shrub or tree species. It stands out from other genera due to distinctive reproductive features, including prolonged styles in flowers and fruits, apiculate anthers, and lobed and unlobed capsules. This study aimed to compare the morphological characteristics of nine taxa in Assam to facilitate identification and assess ethnobotanical knowledge. Ethnobotanical information was gathered by interviewing the local community, and a taxonomic key was provided for accurate identification. Morphological data underwent principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis using PAST for validation. The comparison revealed distinct characteristics in both vegetative and reproductive traits among Glochidion members. Reproductive features, such as inflorescence, style, ovary, and capsules, were key factors for differentiation and identification. PCA and cluster analysis demonstrated correlation and variation among the taxa, contributing significantly to their demarcation. Ethnobotanical studies indicated the genus's potential medicinal properties, supported by both primary and secondary information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsatellites were used to evaluate and compare the lineage relationships and genetic diversity of two improved cultivars of corn (Zea mays L.), seven modern native races, and eight archaeological Chimú samples (1.100-1.500 AD) of the North Peruvian coast. Electrophoresis was required to remove the PCR inhibitors from ancient DNA. Eight STR primer pairs generated amplicons from the genome of modern corn, but only five amplified ancient corn DNA. To establish the lineage relationships among samples, the coefficient of similarity of Jaccard and the technique of analysis of conglomerate with binding average were used. Thus, the pattern of genealogical and genetic relationships of the genotypes were determined. Seven out of the eight pairs of SSR primers revealed polymorphism, being 2.47 (range 2-6) the average of polymorphic alleles. The total alleles tested were 23, with 97 polymorphic bands for the modern corn, yet being monomorphic for the Chimú corn, generating an average of genetic similarity of 0.44 and 1, respectively. These results suggest the existence of inbreeding in some populations of Chimú corn of the north coast of Peru 500 to 900 years ago. Modern races exhibited higher polymorphism, due to hybridization and better assisted selection, in agreement with cytogenetic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsatellites were used to evaluate and compare the lineage relationships and genetic diversity of two improved cultivars of corn (Zea mays L.), seven modern native races, and eight archaeological Chimú samples (1.100-1.500 AD) of the North Peruvian coast. Electrophoresis was required to remove the PCR inhibitors from ancient DNA. Eight STR primer pairs generated amplicons from the genome of modern corn, but only five amplified ancient corn DNA. To establish the lineage relationships among samples, the coefficient of similarity of Jaccard and the technique of analysis of conglomerate with binding average were used. Thus, the pattern of genealogical and genetic relationships of the genotypes were determined. Seven out of the eight pairs of SSR primers revealed polymorphism, being 2.47 (range 2-6) the average of polymorphic alleles. The total alleles tested were 23, with 97 polymorphic bands for the modern corn, yet being monomorphic for the Chimú corn, generating an average of genetic similarity of 0.44 and 1, respectively. These results suggest the existence of inbreeding in some populations of Chimú corn of the north coast of Peru 500 to 900 years ago. Modern races exhibited higher polymorphism, due to hybridization and better assisted selection, in agreement with cytogenetic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Molecular phylogenetic studies have revealed an entirely holoparasitic Boschniakia–Epifagus clade within Orobanchaceae. Pollen morphology of seven species, four studied for the first time, belonging to five currently recognised genera was studied using both light and scanning electron microscopy. Pollen grains are (2 –) 3 (– 4)-colpate, rarely 3-colporate and inaperturate (reported in Epifagus for the first time); suboblate to prolate (P/E = 0.77 – 1.56) in shape; medium and rarely small-sized: Polar axis = 14.63 – 34.58 µm, Equatorial diameter = 14.63 – 30.59 µm. Colpi are long, medium-length or short, wide or narrow, and acute, obtuse, or with indistinct ends. Exine sculpture is rather diverse: reticulate, microreticulate, rugulate-granulate, granulate-perforate, rugulate-perforate, and granulate. The data obtained demonstrate that pollen grains of the studied taxa are morphologically rather diverse and can, therefore, be distinguished at the levels of genera and species. The diagnostic features include shape and size of pollen grains, length and width of colpi, exine thickness in mesocolpia and apocolpia, and exine sculpture. Palynomorphological data are interpreted within the current phylogenetic framework. An UPGMA dendrogram, based on quantitative characters of the pollen grains, supports the status of Xylanche as a genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on molecular phylogenetic and morphological studies, the new genera Sedobassia Freitag & G. Kadereit and Spirobassia Freitag & G. Kadereit were described in the tribe Camphorosmeae (Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae sensu APG IV). Palynomorphological peculiarities are often used in taxonomy as additional diagnostic features. Pollen grains from 26 herbarium specimens belonging to 13 taxa of Bassia, Sedobassia, Spirobassia and Neokochia genera in Eurasia and North America were acetolyzed and studied using both light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Dry pollen grains were also studied. The structure of the columellae of pollen grains was analyzed for the first time in the current study. The aim of this research was to provide data on their pollen characteristics and to evaluate the taxonomic value of these data for generic and species-specific identification. The pollen grains are pantoporate, spheroidal in shape, circular in outline, slightly undulate, undulate or straight on the edges; and medium- or small-sized. Pores are circular, with distinct or indistinct margins. Exine sculpture is nanoechinate; tectum psilate or psilate-perforate. Pore membranes with nanoechini. Taxonomic relevance of the most important characters of pollen grains is discussed (pollen diameter, pore number, pore diameter, distance between pores and between pore centers, pollen diameter(C)/distance between pore centers(D) value, nanoechini density, presenсe/absence of perforations, structure of columellae, number of nanoechini on pore membranes). Pollen morphology proved to be an important additional source of information for species-specific identification. This study provides new data and analyzes the morphological features of pollen grains of Bassia (in the currently accepted circumscription), palynomorphological similarities, and differences between taxa of the genera Bassia, Sedobassia, Spirobassia, and Neokochia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of salt stress on morphological, yield, biochemical, and molecular attributes of different barley genotypes. Ten genotypes were cultivated at Fayoum Research Station, El-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt, during two seasons (2020–2021 and 2021–2022), and they were exposed to two different salt concentrations (tap water as a control and 8000 ppm). The results showed that genotypes and salt stress had a significant impact on all morphological and physiological parameters. The morphological parameters (plant height) and yield attributes (spike length, number of grains per spike, and grain yield per plant) of all barley genotypes were significantly decreased under salt stress as compared to control plants. Under salt stress, the total soluble sugars, proline, total phenol, total flavonoid, ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium contents of the shoots of all barley genotypes significantly increased while the potassium content decreased. L1, which is considered a sensitive genotype was more affected by salinity stress than the tolerance genotypes L4, L6, L9, and Giza 138. SDS-PAGE of seed proteins demonstrated high levels of genetic variety with a polymorphism rate of 42.11%. All genotypes evaluated revealed significant variations in the seed protein biochemical markers, with new protein bands appearing and other protein bands disappearing in the protein patterns of genotypes cultivated under various conditions. Two molecular marker techniques (SCoT and ISSR primers) were used in this study. Ten Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) primers exhibited a total of 94 fragments with sizes ranging from 1800 base pairs to 100 base pairs; 29 of them were monomorphic, and 65 bands, with a polymorphism of 62.18%, were polymorphic. These bands contained 21 unique bands (9 positive specific markers and 12 negative specific markers). A total of 54 amplified bands with molecular sizes ranging from 2200 to 200 bp were produced using seven Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) primers; 31 of them were monomorphic bands and 23 polymorphic bands had a 40.9% polymorphism. The techniques identified molecular genetic markers associated with salt tolerance in barley crop and successfully marked each genotype with distinct bands. The ten genotypes were sorted into two main groups by the unweighted pair group method of arithmetic averages (UPGMA) cluster analysis based on molecular markers and data at a genetic similarity coefficient level of 0.71. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA markers were used to characterize the genetic diversity among the germplasm and considered as a promising tool for better understanding of genetic relatedness among the cross derivatives and helps in exploitation of greengram germplasm. The degree of polymorphism exhibited by amplified SSR markers was 50 per cent reflecting the high genetic diversity among the germplasm with 2.47 alleles per marker. The dendrogram based on the Unweighted Pair Group Method using Arithmetic average (UPGMA) hierarchical clustering pattern revealed the 37 genotypes into eight major clusters. All the cultivated genotypes of greengram were grouped together (I), wild progenitor species Vigna radiata var. sublobata/2 and its derivatives were grouped together (II), whereas all other wild species formed into a separate group (III). The clustering pattern observed in the present study revealed the high level of molecular variability and could be used in the improvement of greengram and determines the genetic relationship among the germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrullus lanatus var. citroides is one of the Khorasan region's major rainfed and cash crops. It is typically grown on marginal lands and mostly dependent on rainfall. Microsatellite markers were therefore employed in this study to determine the genetic diversity among the genotypes from these important production zones in the provinces of Razavi and North Khorasan in order to be used in the future breeding programs of this crop. With the aid of 15 pairs of microsatellite primers (SSR), the genetic diversity among 17 genotypes of C. Lanatus var. citroides collected from various parts of Khorasan province along with one edible variety (Ed) was examined in this study. These markers allowed for the DNA fingerprinting of genotypes, in which 11 markers were polymorphic. In two cases, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products were monomorphic and shared by all genotypes, but in the other two, no detectable PCR product was observed. The range of the polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.13 to 0.86. The genetic similarity among genotypes was determined to be between 15% and 55% using the Jaccard similarity matrix in the NTSYS program (Ver. 2.02). Three major groups were formed by clustering 17 genotypes using the UPGMA method and the Jaccard similarity coefficient. These findings demonstrated that the Ed variety was classified into a different group due to its significant genetic differences from other seeded watermelon genotypes. While verifying the significant amount of genotype diversity, the results of principal component analysis (PCA) of the data were highly in agreement with those of cluster analysis, making the similarities of genetic relationships very clear. This study could be significant in terms of the first steps toward identifying genetic diversity and maintaining genetic reserves in native genotypes of seeded watermelon for future breeding purposes.

Recent molecular phylogenetic studies of Camphorosmoideae (Chenopodiaceae) demonstrated that Camphorosma is monophyletic. Palynomorphological peculiarities are used in taxonomy as additional diagnostic features and pollen analysis. Pollen morphology was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy, based on 13 specimens belonging to four species ( C. annua , C. lessingii , C. monspeliaca and C. songorica ). The aim of this research was to provide new data on pollen characteristics of the above mentioned species and to evaluate their taxonomic value. The results obtained show that pollen grains are pantoporate, spheroidal, circular in outline, undulate or slightly undulate on the edges; small or medium-sized. Pores are circular, with distinct margins. Exine sculpture is nanoechinate, tectum psilate or psilate-perforate. Pore membranes are nanoechinate. Taxonomic relevance of the most important characters of pollen grains (pollen diameter, pore number, pore diameter, distance between pores and between pore centres, C/D value, nanoechini density, presence/absence of perforations, number of nanoechini on pore membranes, structure of columellae) is discussed. The exine structure of pollen grains of all species was analysed for the first time in the current study. Pollen morphology proved to be an important additional source of information for taxonomy for species-specific identification and pollen analysis within Camphorosma . Palynomorphological data are interpreted in the existing phylogenetic framework.

ABSTRACT Studies about the combining ability and genetic diversity can provide information on the genetic resources contained in the working collection of germplasm. The objective of this study was to estimate the combining ability of ten soybean parents and their hybrids in the F1 generation using diallel analysis and genetic diversity analysis to evaluate the dissimilarity between parents and crosses. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, in a completely randomized design with five replications, during the 2019/2020 crop season, in the municipality of Rio Verde, State of Goiás, Brazil. Agronomic and physiological variables were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance. Diallel analysis was performed using the Griffing method 2. Analysis of genetic diversity was performed with the Mahalanobis generalized distance and the hierarchical average linkage clustering. Additive gene effects were predominant in the control of all variables analyzed in the F1 generation. The parents SYN 1163 RR and CG 7370 RR showed good complementarity for the variable grain yield. The thirty-five genotypes were separated into six groups, and the variable weight of one hundred seeds had the greatest contribution to genetic diversity.

Abstract This study introduces a new method to construct phylogenetic trees by combining both of the Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) and sequence alignments. The purpose of this work is to present the DendroSSR program and show it via a case study involving diverse Aspergillus species. To show how the DendroSSR program works to resolve complicated species relationships in phylogenetic trees, we employed the Aspergillus species as an example of a research case. The DendroSSR employs a technique containing multiple phases beginning with, detecting SSRs, computing SSRs similarities, sequences alignment, building a distance matrix based on SSRs similarity and sequences alignments, and then hierarchical clustering, and presenting the findings in a dendrogram. Sometimes sequence alignments alone may not give adequate information to generate a phylogenetic tree to resolve complicated species relationships. Therefore, establishing a distance matrix that is formed of addition of SSRs similarity across sequences to the traditional sequence alignment helps the process substantially and resolves the connections of complex species on phylogenetic trees. Additionally, it may be hard to distinguish complex relationships across species when studying conserved sequences, which could lead to an incomplete representation of their evolutionary relationships. These limitations are addressed by DendroSSR, which offers a technique to produce phylogenetic trees by incorporating SSRs similarity across species into the approach of generating phylogenetic trees. As it is known, SSRs are extensively scattered across the genomes of species and exhibit a great variation. Therefore, SSRs may support the knowledge gathered from sequence alignments by providing more information on genetic variation and even evolutionary relationships. The use of DendroSSR analysis might be considered for creating phylogenetic trees as a complementary or secondary strategy among the species under examination in circumstances where traditional phylogenetic analysis fails to clarify the species complex phylogenetic relationships.

The genus Arachis is endemic to South America and contains 83 described species assembled into nine taxonomical sections. The section Arachis is of particular interest because it includes the cultivated peanut (A. hypogaea) and its closely related wild species. In this study, we used 26 microsatellite markers to analyze the genetic variability and relationships of some recently collected germplasm accessions of species in the Arachis section, with emphasis on the B genome species. The knowledge of the genetic relationships among species and accessions is necessary for a more efficient management of germplasm collections and use of wild species for crop improvement. This is especially important for the B genome species, as only one accession of A. ipaënsis, the B genome donor to the allotetraploid A. hypogaea (AABB), is available in germplasm collections worldwide. The results shed more light on the genetic relationships between accessions of A. ipaënsis, A. gregoryi, A. magna, A. valida and A. williamsii, what expands the number of accessions for incorporation of useful genes from the species associated with the peanut B genome. The analyses also showed a generally high level of intraspecific genetic variability, but usually grouped the accessions according to their genome types and species. However, accessions of some species did not group as expected, and these results suggest the need of further taxonomic revision of a few taxa, especially some accessions of A. gregoryi, A. magna and A. kuhlmannii and the circumscriptions of sections Erectoides and Procumbentes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current investigation is to use scanning electron and light microscopy to obtain pollen morphological information for all Artemisia taxa growing in Turkey. In addition, statistical analyses were performed and a dichotomous key was prepared for the identification of taxa using pollen characters. Pollen grains of Artemisia are radially symmetrical, isopolar, oblate-spheroidal, and prolate-spheroidal, with the polar axis ranging from 15.23–27.20 µm. The equatorial diameter ranges from 16.48–27.47 µm. Artemisia taxa typically have tricolporate, tricolpate pollen. However, pantocolporate, pantocolpate, and syncolporate pollen grains are rarely present in A. austriaca and A. armeniaca. Our study showed that, although other Artemisia taxa have an ornamentation that is microechinate-granulate, A. incana, A. taurica var. vanensis, and A. spicigera differ by their microechinate ornamentation. Furthermore, we found that A. chamaemelifolia contains the highest number of microechinae per 25 µm2, whereas A. fragrans had the fewest. Additionally, the average number of granules differs between taxa. The number of granules per 25 µm2 is the highest in A. scoparia and the lowest in A. santonicum subsp. santonicum. Furthermore, the UPGMA (unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean) dendrogram indicated that there are three different groups of taxa based on pollen morphological characteristics from 26 taxa. The average number of granules per 25 µm2, as determined by the principal component analysis, plays a significant role in this classification scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia is the largest genus in the Lamiaceae family in the world and Iran contains 58 species. This genus contains over 900 species of annual and perennial herbaceous plants and differs from other lamias in the unusual structure of their plumage. Information on important medicinal plants' genetic diversity and population structure is well documented in the literature. Increased genetic diversity can reduce the negative effects of inbreeding on populations. We investigated genetic variation among eight Salvia species using ISSR molecular markers. ISSR is a molecular marker amplified by PCR using microsatellite primers. Samples were gathered from various locations in Iran. Most samples were assigned to Ardabil city. Twenty randomized ISSR primers were used, generating different polymorphic bands. The 20 ISSR primers generated 225 valuable bands and 221 bands were polymorphic (98/2%). Pairwise genetic distances ranged from 0.083 to 0.577. Dendrograms were generated using the UPGMA method using NTSYSpc 2.02i software to identify seven major groups from eight Salvia species. The polymorphism levels observed in the present study represent a high degree of genetic diversity among Salvia species. Following the first study on the genetic relationships of eight species of Salvia in Iran using RAPD and ISSR molecular markers, this study was performed using the ISSR molecular marker to investigate the genetic relationships of eight other species of Salvia. The results of this research represented that the molecular markers of the ISSR are suitable for assessing genetic variation and evolutionary relationships among Salvia species, showing a wide range of dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verticillium wilt caused by pathogenic soil fungus -- Vertcillium dahliae Kleb. is one of the most serious strawberry diseases not treated chemically. The strawberry is a species more or less susceptible to Verticillium sp., hence the need to select new genetically resistant cultivars. In this study, susceptibility of four strawberry cultivars to Verticillium wilt was examined under in vitro selection conditions as regards the genetic similarity of selected resistant plants. Microplants of 4 strawberry subclones obtained by in vitro cloning of each cultivar were inoculated in vitro with liquid mycelial homogenate of the pathogen. Development of disease symptoms was observed after 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days post inoculation. Results revealed differences of susceptibility to V. dahliae which depended on the subclone. The least susceptible to Verticillium wilt turned out to be 'Plena' subclone, followed by the 'Elsanta', 'Feltar' and 'Teresa' subclones. The highest genetic similarity of 59% was found between 'Elsanta' and 'Teresa' subclones, which after 75 days from inoculation were also characterized by a very similar percentage of resistant plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, 70 genotypes of sesame were characterized for 12 morphological and 14 quantitative characters and subjected to genetic divergence (UPGMA hierarchial clustering) analysis. It revealed that a considerable amount of genetic variability was exhibited for majority of the morphological traits except for locule number per capsule, capsule number per leaf axil and capsule shape. In divergence analysis for both morphological and quantitative characters, 70 genotypes were grouped into seven clusters at the genetic distance of 0.5 using Ward’s minimum variance method and Gower’s method of genetic distance. Selection of the genotypes present in different clusters having more genetic distance, preferably belonging to different geographical origin may result in more heterotic effects in the hybridization programme. Good recombinants can be obtained by mating between clusters I and VII for genotypes viz., GJT-5, RT-46 with TMV-3, VRI-3, Paiyur 1 as they have maximum genetic distance between them. Most of the characters recorded high mean values in cluster VII. Hence, for improvement of these traits, the genotypes present in cluster VII could be exploited as parents.

Citrullus lanatus var. citroides is one of the Khorasan region's major rainfed and cash crops. It is typically grown on marginal lands and mostly dependent on rainfall. Microsatellite markers were therefore employed in this study to determine the genetic diversity among the genotypes from these important production zones in the provinces of Razavi and North Khorasan in order to be used in the future breeding programs of this crop. With the aid of 15 pairs of microsatellite primers (SSR), the genetic diversity among 17 genotypes of C. Lanatus var. citroides collected from various parts of Khorasan province along with one edible variety (Ed) was examined in this study. These markers allowed for the DNA fingerprinting of genotypes, in which 11 markers were polymorphic. In two cases, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products were monomorphic and shared by all genotypes, but in the other two, no detectable PCR product was observed. The range of the polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.13 to 0.86. The genetic similarity among genotypes was determined to be between 15% and 55% using the Jaccard similarity matrix in the NTSYS program (Ver. 2.02). Three major groups were formed by clustering 17 genotypes using the UPGMA method and the Jaccard similarity coefficient. These findings demonstrated that the Ed variety was classified into a different group due to its significant genetic differences from other seeded watermelon genotypes. While verifying the significant amount of genotype diversity, the results of principal component analysis (PCA) of the data were highly in agreement with those of cluster analysis, making the similarities of genetic relationships very clear. This study could be significant in terms of the first steps toward identifying genetic diversity and maintaining genetic reserves in native genotypes of seeded watermelon for future breeding purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent molecular phylogenetic studies of Camphorosmoideae (Chenopodiaceae) demonstrated that Camphorosma is monophyletic. Palynomorphological peculiarities are used in taxonomy as additional diagnostic features and pollen analysis. Pollen morphology was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy, based on 13 specimens belonging to four species (C. annua, C. lessingii, C. monspeliaca and C. songorica). The aim of this research was to provide new data on pollen characteristics of the above mentioned species and to evaluate their taxonomic value. The results obtained show that pollen grains are pantoporate, spheroidal, circular in outline, undulate or slightly undulate on the edges; small or medium-sized. Pores are circular, with distinct margins. Exine sculpture is nanoechinate, tectum psilate or psilate-perforate. Pore membranes are nanoechinate. Taxonomic relevance of the most important characters of pollen grains (pollen diameter, pore number, pore diameter, distance between pores and between pore centres, C/D value, nanoechini density, presence/absence of perforations, number of nanoechini on pore membranes, structure of columellae) is discussed. The exine structure of pollen grains of all species was analysed for the first time in the current study. Pollen morphology proved to be an important additional source of information for taxonomy for species-specific identification and pollen analysis within Camphorosma. Palynomorphological data are interpreted in the existing phylogenetic framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turkey is in a very convenient position for animal husbandry in terms of both natural resources and ecological conditions. Forage crops, which has a very important place in agricultural activities, is the insurance of plant and animal production. Sainfoin is a perennial forage legume species that grown in the northern temperate regions of the world from the Mediterranean region and the Caucasus, and to Central Asia. In this study the genetic diversity of 100 genotypes representing 44 accessions from 18 different Onobrychis species (O. arenaria subsp. arenaria, O. inermis, O. petraea, O. cyri, O. iberica, O. altissima, O. vassilczenkoi, O. conferta subsp. argentea, O. alba subsp. laconica, O. biebersteinii, O. grandis, O. kachetica, O. kemulariae, O. oxyodonta, O. megataphros, O. pallasii, Onobrychis spp., and O. viciifolia) were evaluated using 8 simple sequence repeat (microsatellite) markers. Based on the results, OVK036, OVK094, OVK125, OVM033, OVK161, OVK046, OVM061, and OVK174 loci were polymorphic. The observed number of alleles per SSR locus ranged from 6 to 21 alleles (mean of 11.625). Maximum allele frequency ranged from 0.51 to 0.93 with a mean value of 0.73. The PIC value ranged from 0.124 to 0.244. The mean polymorphism information content of loci was 0.188. Genetic diversity coefficients according to the UPGMA ranged from 0.000 to 0.9375. Cluster analysis divided the 100 sainfoin genotypes into two main groups (Cluster-I and Cluster-II). All diploid genotypes (except for 1 diploid genotype) used in the study formed a separate group within Cluster-I. The results revealed that SSR markers used in this study are useful for molecular characterization and assessing genetic diversity of sainfoin accessions. The obtained SSR alleles and genetic variability in a studied certain loci provided significant information about the genetic structure of sainfoin accessions that could be used as parental lines in sainfoin breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]